At the Humanities Symposium, Amitav Ghosh discussed the intersection of climate change and human migration in his keynote address. His insights, drawn from his work, “The Great Derangement,” emphasized the diverse roles disciplines must play in addressing these challenges. Attendee reflections highlighted personal connections to migration, the impact of technology, and the necessity of interdisciplinary dialogue to develop solutions for these urgent issues.
Amitav Ghosh, an esteemed author and environmental activist, delivered a compelling keynote address at the Humanities Symposium on March 13. His presentation, titled “The Great Uprooting: Migration and Movement in the Age of Climate Change,” emphasized the critical relationship between climate change and human migration. Ghosh’s discourse, inspired by his non-fiction work, “The Great Derangement,” called for a deeper understanding of how the climate crisis impacts displaced populations globally.
In his address, Ghosh highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of the climate crisis, encompassing history, politics, and arts. Dr. Billy Friebele, the Humanities Symposium Director, remarked on this perspective, stating, “The book is about how each discipline has a role to play in climate change and coming up with solutions.” This approach transcends typical studies of climate change, fostering discussions on individuals’ roles in combating the issue.
During his speech, Ghosh shared instances from his experiences and research, particularly his visits to migrant camps in Italy where he engaged with those displaced by environmental changes and political turmoil. “My own family was displaced from Bangladesh from a climate event in the 1990s,” he noted, underscoring his personal connection to the topic.
He also addressed the pivotal role technology plays in migration today, especially the use of cell phones. Ghosh described these devices as essential lifelines, stating, “Every link in the chain of movement depends on cell phones. Their mobile devices are their compasses that guide them on their journeys.”
Students at the symposium, such as Ana Sofia Calderon, shared their perspectives, reflecting on their migration backgrounds. Calderon, whose grandparents faced persecution in the Dominican Republic, commented on the evolution of migration experiences and technology’s influence, saying, “Ghosh talked a lot about the role of cell phones in migration and how they’re used as tools… It’s fascinating to me how much we’ve progressed.”
Friebele further emphasized the symposium’s alignment with Loyola’s liberal arts mission, where differing disciplines unite to tackle pressing global issues. He remarked, “It’s amazing to sit in that room and hear the perspective of a theology student and then… a writing student.”
As Ghosh concluded, he offered a thought-provoking challenge: “It is time to rethink how we view migration and climate change, and how we, in our own disciplines, can contribute to solutions.” This compelling symposium served as a vital reminder for participants about the urgent need for critical engagement and cooperative efforts to address the issues surrounding climate change and migration.
The Humanities Symposium featuring Amitav Ghosh highlighted the intricate connections between climate change and human migration, presenting a multidimensional discourse on these pressing issues. Ghosh’s insights and the diverse perspectives shared by attendees underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in seeking solutions. The event reinforced a collective call for reflection and action, urging individuals across various fields to engage with these critical global challenges more thoughtfully and collaboratively.
Original Source: thegreyhound.org
